What is a Family Group Conference?
Family Group Conferences (FGCs) usually include participation by parents, children, extended family, caregivers, community members, and the referring Social Worker.
The family takes a lead role in decision making and plan development during an FGC process. Social Workers will participate at the beginning and end of the meeting, providing time for the family to develop a plan on their own.
The resulting Family Plan is reviewed by the Social Worker to ensure it addresses identified child safety concerns.FGCs vary in length and can take up to a full day.
Who Requests a Family Group Conference?
MCFD and Delegated Aboriginal Agency Social Workers can make a referral for SIWS to facilitate a Family Group Conference (FGC) for Aboriginal families who have an open child protection file.
FGCs involve immediate and extended family in planning for the safety, placement, or permanent care of a child in care. FGCs are often used when other approaches have not resulted in the effective reduction of child safety concerns.
What is Involved?
The SIWS Family Advocate is a neutral coordinator / facilitator who will:
What are the outcomes?
FGC results in a plan that describes:
Outcomes from an FGC include:
Have a Referral?
If you know an individual or family who you feel could benefit from these services, please complete a referral form. For any questions, please contact us at: